In cell arc only gohan achieves ssj2 and it’s while fighting perfect cell after he kills android 16.
In hyperbolic time chamber gohan and goku perfect the ssj form so it doesn’t use as much energy or not more than base form.

Trunks “discovers” buff ssj1 form that is stronger but slower

I do not want to recreate 40 years of best practices, I want to understand them and try to implement them. That’s why I’m asking for some reading, educational material. It’s not that I’m averse to using an engine, it’s just not something I set out to do

You don’t mention dwarves when talking about races. Wouldn’t they also be decent with + to con and str and some axes/maces bonuses?

I mostly want somewhat tanky, damage focused paladin.
I’m not sure what point distribution system there will be, but I wager the one where you “buy” stats and the higher stat goes the more it costs.
I’m mostly having trouble and second guessing in regards to point distribution. Like do I just dump into one, should I invest some in constitution? Etc